Current General Admission Prices

General admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California costs $30.95 for adults, $19.95 for children ages 3 to 11, and $27.95 for seniors 62 and older. Children under 3 enter free. These prices are for standard daytime entry and do not include parking, which costs $15 per vehicle in the on-site lot.

Prices can shift seasonally and during special events, so checking the aquarium's website before your visit confirms the exact cost for your date. The aquarium occasionally runs promotions for Southern California residents or discounted days, though these vary by month.

Key Takeaways

  • General admission runs $30.95 for adults and $19.95 for children ages 3 to 11, with parking at $15 per vehicle.
  • Annual memberships start around $150 and pay for themselves in five visits if you go regularly.
  • Discounted tickets are sometimes available through local libraries, employer programs, or the aquarium's website during promotional periods.
  • Special experiences like behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters cost extra and must be reserved in advance.
  • Visiting on weekday mornings typically means shorter lines than weekend afternoons, though ticket prices stay the same.

Annual Memberships and Passes

An annual membership to the Aquarium of the Pacific starts at around $150 for a single adult and includes unlimited visits, free parking, and discounts on food and merchandise. A family membership covering up to four people costs roughly $250 to $300 per year. Members also receive invitations to exclusive events and early access to special exhibits.

If you plan to visit more than five times in a year, a membership usually saves money compared to paying per visit. The aquarium's website lists current membership tiers and what each level includes, since benefits and pricing change periodically.

Ways to Find Discounted Tickets

Several organizations offer reduced-price tickets to the Aquarium of the Pacific without requiring membership. Many Southern California public libraries partner with the aquarium and distribute discounted or free admission passes to cardholders—call your local branch to ask whether they have passes available. Some employers, unions, and credit card companies also negotiate group rates or special offers for their members.

The aquarium's official website sometimes lists promotional codes or discounted ticket windows during slower seasons. Visiting on a weekday morning rather than a weekend afternoon does not lower the ticket price, but it does reduce wait times and crowds, which can make the experience feel less rushed.

Special Experiences Beyond General Admission

The aquarium offers paid add-ons beyond the standard ticket. A behind-the-scenes tour costs around $50 to $75 per person and includes access to areas closed to regular visitors. Animal encounters—where you feed or touch certain species under staff supervision—run $40 to $60 depending on which animal you interact with.

These experiences must be reserved ahead of time and are not included in general admission or annual memberships. Availability changes seasonally, so check the aquarium's website or call ahead to see which encounters are offered on your planned visit date.

What Is and Is Not Included in Your Ticket

Your admission ticket covers access to all permanent exhibits, the main aquarium building, and outdoor viewing areas. It does not include parking, food, beverages, or merchandise. The aquarium has restaurants and snack bars inside, and prices for food are typical of venue dining—expect to pay $12 to $18 for a sandwich or entree.

Parking is separate from admission and costs $15 per vehicle in the aquarium's lot. If you arrive by public transit, you avoid the parking fee; the Long Beach Transit bus system and the Metro Blue Line both serve the waterfront area where the aquarium sits.

Group Rates and School Visits

Groups of 15 or more people may receive discounted per-person rates. Schools and educational organizations often arrange field trips at reduced prices. Contact the aquarium's group sales department directly for a quote, as rates depend on group size, the time of year, and whether you want additional services like a guided tour.

Teachers planning a field trip should ask about educational programs that come with admission—some include a staff-led presentation or interactive activity related to the exhibits. These programs may be included in the group rate or cost extra, depending on what you choose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do children under 3 really get in free?

Yes, children under 3 do not require a ticket and enter free with a paying adult. You do not need to show proof of age at the gate, though bringing an ID is a good idea if your child is close to the age cutoff.

Can I use my membership at other aquariums?

An Aquarium of the Pacific membership is valid only at that location. However, some membership levels may include reciprocal benefits at other Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) member facilities—check your membership details or ask staff when you purchase.

What if I want to visit multiple times in one year?

If you plan five or more visits, an annual membership usually costs less than buying individual tickets each time. A single adult membership at $150 breaks even around your fifth visit, making it worthwhile if you go regularly or live nearby.

Are there discounts for military or veterans?

The aquarium occasionally offers military discounts, though availability and amounts vary. Call the main ticket line or check the website before your visit to confirm whether a military rate is currently available and what documentation you need to bring.

Can I bring my own food into the aquarium?

Outside food and beverages are typically not permitted inside the main building, though policies can change. Contact the aquarium directly if you have dietary restrictions or other reasons you need to bring your own food—they may make exceptions or direct you to nearby options outside the facility.